Stonegate unveils apprenticeship scheme

Stonegate Pub Company has launched a new nationwide apprenticeship programme for back-of-house staff as part of its training scheme called the Albert Theory of Progression (ATOP).

ATOP has been designed to nurture and develop home-grown talent and has seen hundreds of employees progress their careers.

The new 12-month apprenticeship scheme aims to help students lead and run demanding kitchens and will have 170 places available each year, giving learners a Level 3 Senior Production Chef Apprenticeship qualification.

The programme, developed by Stonegate’s apprenticeship manager Jemelle Bish and back-of-house training manager Rhona Symon, touches on the leadership, customers, business and people.

Continual development

Students will learn to develop their leadership skills, learn about the business marketplace and develop sales opportunities.

Stonegate CEO Simon Longbottom outlined how the new programme means candidates can drive their careers in hospitality.

He said: “The continual development of our Albert’s Theory of Progression enables us to offer a variety of learning choice across the broad range of careers that we offer.

“Our new apprenticeship programme enables our kitchen teams to further their careers through bespoke programmes, tailored to the business needs, as eating out continues to grow.”

Budding chefs

The scheme will be available nationwide and apprenticeship manager Jemelle Bish said: “Assessment centres will be hosted across the country to ensure we attract those candidates that have the ambition and drive to develop their career through this mix of practical and academic learning.

“We also aim to offer budding chefs and kitchen managers the opportunity to join our new Albert’s Evolution career development pathway enabling future opportunities to be identified and aimed for.”

Training will be delivered in conjunction with learning partner Remit. CEO Sue Pittcok said: “The apprenticeship programme is an exciting step in our partnership with Stonegate.

“The commitment to investing in their people is paying dividends with reduced turnover and clear career progression steps.”

Related event

The Publican Awards, now more than a quarter of a century old, is the leading benchmark for success across the pub company market and the hunt is now on for the 2019 winners. The competition will culminate in a huge celebration on 12 March 2019, at Battersea Evolution, London, where the winners will be revealed.
With 17 awards up for grabs, there are plenty of opportunities for businesses large and small..